Mobile Application Prototype for Foot Self-care Support for Persons With Diabetes: A Human-Centered Design Approach

Area of Science:

• Digital Health
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Diabetes Management

Background:

• Human-centered design (HCD) is crucial for mobile health (mHealth) solutions.
• Limited research exists on HCD for diabetes foot self-care applications.
• Type 2 diabetes necessitates effective foot self-care to prevent complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a mobile application prototype using HCD to support foot self-care in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
• To detail the third phase of a project focused on creating a low-fidelity prototype.
• To integrate essential functionalities and educational content tailored to user needs.

Main Methods:

• Mixed-methods approach including scoping review, patient interviews, and Delphi panel.
• Three-phase project: context definition, user requirements specification, and design solution development.
• Focus on the third phase: development of a low-fidelity prototype based on prior findings.

Main Results:

• A comprehensive mobile application prototype was designed using HCD.
• Integrated functionalities include daily foot care reminders, appointment notifications, communication tools, and educational resources.
• The prototype addresses identified user needs for enhanced self-care knowledge.

Conclusions:

• The HCD approach successfully created a functional prototype for diabetes foot self-care.
• The application aims to fill gaps in the digital health market for diabetes management.
• Empowers individuals with type 2 diabetes to proactively manage their foot health.